Fairbanks, AK – October 2025 brought unusually warm and wet conditions across northern and western Alaska, according to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks. The agency reported that Fairbanks logged its 8th warmest and 9th wettest October on record since 1904, with temperatures averaging 33.4°F — 7.2°F above normal.
According to NOAA data released Saturday, Fairbanks also saw 1.84 inches of precipitation, more than 240% of normal, while Nome recorded 3.24 inches, roughly 176% above average. Despite the mild temperatures, snowfall totals lagged behind typical levels, with only half the usual accumulation in Fairbanks.
Nome, Utqiaġvik, and Kotzebue all reported above-normal temperatures and rainfall, continuing a trend of warmer Arctic autumns. Utqiaġvik, the northernmost U.S. city, averaged 22.9°F, about 1.7°F above normal, while Kotzebue reached 28°F, slightly warmer than average.
Meteorologists noted that multiple strong coastal storms—including the remnants of Typhoon Halong—helped drive the excessive moisture that soaked western Alaska throughout the month. These systems battered the Bering Sea region, where recovery efforts from storm damage continue into November.
NOAA says the persistent warmth reflects ongoing climate variability across Alaska, as northern regions transition later into winter freeze-up conditions.
